AFCON 2025
Paul Pogba’s ban has officially ended and the former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder is free to join any club of his choice with immediate effect.
The 31-year-old midfielder originally banned for four years for a doping offense but successfully appealed for an 18-month sentence at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Pogba returned to training in January and will look to play a competitive game for the first time since he came on as a substitute for Juventus against Empoli on September 3, 2023.
Several clubs including Manchester United have been linked to the French star. The 2018 World Cup winner has been linked to a possible return to Old Trafford for a third stint at the club but given the circumstances that lead to his departure the first and second time, the 31-year-old knows better.
The 31-year-old still has a lot to offer and it will be advisable to join a club with less pressure, a good financial reward and a sense of competitiveness as he looks to get back into top shape.
1. Al Nassr
Paul Pogba once played with Ronaldo at Manchester United and will possibly cherish the idea of reuniting with one of the players he adores. His wages won’t be a problem as Saudi League pro league top clubs are known for handing out sumptuous wages to superstars from Europe that come into the league. An Al Nassr team with Ronaldo, Mane and Pogba will further increase their chances of winning the Saudi Pro League and the continental title. In addition, Paul Pogba is a practising Muslim and has visited Saudi Arabia a couple of times for religious purposes. Being in an environment that is culturally and religiously appealing could convince Pogba to join the club.
2. Olimpique Marseille
Regardless of his previous situation, Paul Pogba remains a superstar and he is loved in France. A homecoming to Olimpique Marseille could help him get back to form quickly as he competes in a top league in Europe. Paul Pogba’s style of play suits Roberto De Zerbi’s style of play, which thrives on holding on to possession and giving freedom to players with individual qualities to wreak havoc in offense. Pogba’s flair and technical ability and Mason Greenwood’s pace and trickery on the flanks could see Marseille enjoy a blissful period till the end of the season as it appears that PSG will retain their Ligue 1 title. His return could also be a boost for the French League in terms of starpower following the departure of Kylian Mbappe to Real Madrid last summer.
3. MLS or Turkish League
As Paul Pogba looks to get back to shape, top form, and a possible chance of returning to the French national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, it is imperative to play in a league that his less demanding where he can slowly and steadily return to top form till the summer. Los Angeles Galaxy has been linked to the midfielder and if he considers the move, he won’t have to break a sweat to impress while he also enjoys superstar status alongside an old friend Oliver Giroud. A move to the Turkish League won’t be bad as well, even though it is more competitive than the MLS. The likes of Galatasaray, Besiktas or probably Fenerbahçe could show interest in him given his quality.
